The Querist combed through Tabeann's comments on her research for any details that might fit into the pattern for which he was searching, and mentioned his admiration for the wide variety of languages and sources she had explored.
"... for I would surely have been overreaching my abilities in such an attempt. And even my own research would have yielded less had you not been so gracious as to aid me with translation ..."
Her own enthusiasm caused a renewed barrage of questioning in the young scholar’s mind. He tried to organize them so that his process would lead in a productive direction.
"So, setting aside the Who and the Why for the time being, we are left with What and How. The other questions are best left until his condition is stabilized. I strongly suspect a combined poison of some sort. Given the time frame and the fact that no definite traces were found, perhaps something in his diet and later another substance to trigger the effect, delivered by contact. Do we have access to the record of the patient's meals for the past week or so? At any rate, I suspect that there is more information to be found in human sources rather than books. I'd like to do a little investigating into different staff areas and in the city to see what might be gained by listening wisely."
"Will Lady Rioja be available this eveningtide? It may be wise to skip to a more rapid and divine-inspired method of finding a solution if things have not improved."
The energy gained in exchanging information urged Barrett to action. It was time to do some literal footwork. Not wanting to lose sight of the human element, Barrett made sure to spend a candlemark or so in seeking out his new friends to see how everyone was doing. As he was planning to build an information network it seemed only prudent to start with his co-workers in the Library. He sought out Kordan and to Cogà mh to see if they were in good spirits and if there was any way he could assist either of them in the limited time at his disposal. He also looked for Monica to see what progress she had made with her discovery and for Sekhmet, to thank her for her valuable insight into the Desert Isle. As he made his way around the work areas, he was careful to keep an eye out for Iath. If she attempted to corner him or cause mischief, he wanted to have a fair warning.
Before actually leaving the Library, Barrett went to find Jill and see if she might introduce him to some of their fellow palace employees in the other areas, or at least give him the short tour of where kitchens and closets and well-traveled passageways were.
Truths & Tenuous Ties – Barrett (Sam 18 & 19th, TT)
Moderator: Mods
Tabeann smiled at Barrett’s enthusiasm, which she understood and indeed shared. She listened to his thoughts on what was used against the Caesar and how, nodding as he spoke.
“Meals,†she echoed, frowning thoughtfully, but then refocusing on Barrett as he continued with his caravan of thought. “Excellent,†the scholar declared at his decision to pursue his research through live sources.
“Rioja will certainly be present, yes,†Tabeann replied to the Querist’s question.
“And Warnock, the Master Chef would certainly know what had been served recently. That would include the Betrothal Dinner,†she added, again the thoughtful frown creased her brow, as she gazed into the middle distance. “A few exotic dishes served for that, I would imagine,†the Adhiel speculated, with a distracted nod. “Rioja attended that dinner as well, so she might be helpful there,†Tabeann suggested, as her gaze returned to Barrett.
“May the Thinker guide you,†the Mistress smiled her parting words to her apprentice and fellow scholar, as Barrett left her to continue her work.
Kordan was easy to find, as he sat in the same spot where he’d been when the Mistress had first called to him. The little man was deeply engrossed in what appeared to be an explosion of parchment on the table before him. Cogà mh and Monica were nowhere to be seen, but Kordan grinned hugely at Barrett’s arrival at his table, greeting him in his customarily cheerful manner.
From Kordan, Barrett learned that Monica was working in her chamber, having spent far too much time sitting on the floor of the library. This was, naturally, relayed with much good-natured chuckling. Barrett also found out that Cogà hm was somewhere within the library, but Kordan did not know specifically where, although he did suggest that the Adhiel was likely carefully avoiding a certain young noblewoman who had recently taken a liking to the Librarian. This revelation was accompanied with a broad wink and the promise of more information to come later.
Iath was noticeable in her absence, but Jill was easily located in the staff quarters area. As was often the case, the young woman’s arms were full of crisply folded linens. At Barrett’s approach, the young woman smiled brightly and then quickly looked away, blushing fiercely.
“Good Morningtide, Barrett,†she finally managed, avoiding meeting his eyes. Colour still infused her pale skin, from the scooped neckline of her plain cream dress, up her neck, to her high Adhiel cheekbones. “How may I help you?†Jill asked, in a quiet, self-conscious voice.
“Meals,†she echoed, frowning thoughtfully, but then refocusing on Barrett as he continued with his caravan of thought. “Excellent,†the scholar declared at his decision to pursue his research through live sources.
“Rioja will certainly be present, yes,†Tabeann replied to the Querist’s question.
“And Warnock, the Master Chef would certainly know what had been served recently. That would include the Betrothal Dinner,†she added, again the thoughtful frown creased her brow, as she gazed into the middle distance. “A few exotic dishes served for that, I would imagine,†the Adhiel speculated, with a distracted nod. “Rioja attended that dinner as well, so she might be helpful there,†Tabeann suggested, as her gaze returned to Barrett.
“May the Thinker guide you,†the Mistress smiled her parting words to her apprentice and fellow scholar, as Barrett left her to continue her work.
Kordan was easy to find, as he sat in the same spot where he’d been when the Mistress had first called to him. The little man was deeply engrossed in what appeared to be an explosion of parchment on the table before him. Cogà mh and Monica were nowhere to be seen, but Kordan grinned hugely at Barrett’s arrival at his table, greeting him in his customarily cheerful manner.
From Kordan, Barrett learned that Monica was working in her chamber, having spent far too much time sitting on the floor of the library. This was, naturally, relayed with much good-natured chuckling. Barrett also found out that Cogà hm was somewhere within the library, but Kordan did not know specifically where, although he did suggest that the Adhiel was likely carefully avoiding a certain young noblewoman who had recently taken a liking to the Librarian. This revelation was accompanied with a broad wink and the promise of more information to come later.
Iath was noticeable in her absence, but Jill was easily located in the staff quarters area. As was often the case, the young woman’s arms were full of crisply folded linens. At Barrett’s approach, the young woman smiled brightly and then quickly looked away, blushing fiercely.
“Good Morningtide, Barrett,†she finally managed, avoiding meeting his eyes. Colour still infused her pale skin, from the scooped neckline of her plain cream dress, up her neck, to her high Adhiel cheekbones. “How may I help you?†Jill asked, in a quiet, self-conscious voice.
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Barrett's response to his Mistress was instinctive, perhaps based upon his earlier assessment of the auras surrounding her work area.
"And may the light of knowledge and the wisdom of Nature illumine your work."
Kordan was ebullient as expected. The Querist tsk-tsked about Monica and mentioned his own meeting with her in the late marks of eveningtide. Cogà hm's news caused a look of mock display.
"You'd think he'd learn to keep his romantic dalliances distant from his place of work."
The lack of the antagonizing adhiel was both a relief and cause for suspicion. Could she be elsewhere plotting against Barrett or Kordan for the mirth they had shared at her expense? Or against Cogà hm and his new woman of interest? Perhaps she had worked late into the evening as well, although on what Barrett could not have said.
Inwardly the scholar winced at the exaggerated effect he had upon the young maid. It made him feel as if he were perhaps taking advantage of her in some way that he did not intend. But his feeling of friendship with her was quite genuine and so he tried not to do or say anything that might be construed as teasing.
"Good Morningtide, Mistress Jill. Perhaps I may help you for a bit? Or at least accompany you for some of your duties."
He smiled innocently, a natural response to the feelings he perceived in his companion.
"I am charged to make myself familiar with routines in the Palace in various wings. Comings and goings and different passages and whatnot. I also would like to make the acquaintance of some of our fellow staff from other areas and will need to interview Master Chef Warnock at some point. Perhaps you could help me with the passages and by pointing out some of the more prominent staff and those who have access to royal chambers, and by introducing me to the kitchen staff? I want to find my way around but I do not wish to stumble clumsily into disturbing the work of others as I do so. After all, a scribe is certainly no more important than a valet or chamber maid or cook."
"And of course it gives me an opportunity to become better acquainted with you."
"And may the light of knowledge and the wisdom of Nature illumine your work."
Kordan was ebullient as expected. The Querist tsk-tsked about Monica and mentioned his own meeting with her in the late marks of eveningtide. Cogà hm's news caused a look of mock display.
"You'd think he'd learn to keep his romantic dalliances distant from his place of work."
The lack of the antagonizing adhiel was both a relief and cause for suspicion. Could she be elsewhere plotting against Barrett or Kordan for the mirth they had shared at her expense? Or against Cogà hm and his new woman of interest? Perhaps she had worked late into the evening as well, although on what Barrett could not have said.
Inwardly the scholar winced at the exaggerated effect he had upon the young maid. It made him feel as if he were perhaps taking advantage of her in some way that he did not intend. But his feeling of friendship with her was quite genuine and so he tried not to do or say anything that might be construed as teasing.
"Good Morningtide, Mistress Jill. Perhaps I may help you for a bit? Or at least accompany you for some of your duties."
He smiled innocently, a natural response to the feelings he perceived in his companion.
"I am charged to make myself familiar with routines in the Palace in various wings. Comings and goings and different passages and whatnot. I also would like to make the acquaintance of some of our fellow staff from other areas and will need to interview Master Chef Warnock at some point. Perhaps you could help me with the passages and by pointing out some of the more prominent staff and those who have access to royal chambers, and by introducing me to the kitchen staff? I want to find my way around but I do not wish to stumble clumsily into disturbing the work of others as I do so. After all, a scribe is certainly no more important than a valet or chamber maid or cook."
"And of course it gives me an opportunity to become better acquainted with you."
Last edited by Barrett on Sun Jun 12, 2005 5:43 am, edited 1 time in total.
Jill looked at Barrett with surprise on her vaguely Adhiel features, as she replied, “Oh, well, I suppose….†The young woman sounded most uncertain, as she looked about her as if in search of an answer in the hallway somewhere. “I really don’t, um, know many other staff,†she muttered, flushing anew with shyness.
Then she looked up, as if in inspiration. “But I have met the Master Chef,†she offered, obviously pleased to have stumbled upon a useful connection. “And, of course, Bevan. He knows everyone,†Jill declared, now smiling bashfully.
The maid took her armful of linens and stored them safely away in a closet at the end of the hallway where Barrett had encountered her.
“Perhaps we should go directly to Bevan’s office?†the Achadhiel maiden suggested, obviously trying to be of use.
Then she looked up, as if in inspiration. “But I have met the Master Chef,†she offered, obviously pleased to have stumbled upon a useful connection. “And, of course, Bevan. He knows everyone,†Jill declared, now smiling bashfully.
The maid took her armful of linens and stored them safely away in a closet at the end of the hallway where Barrett had encountered her.
“Perhaps we should go directly to Bevan’s office?†the Achadhiel maiden suggested, obviously trying to be of use.
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Inside, Barrett cringed slightly.
You've embarrassed her after all. Congratulations.
He listened closely and paid attention to her most minute physical cues in an attempt to rectify the situation. Fortunately she gave him plenty to work with.
"The Master Chef is definitely someone I shall have to meet."
His smile was quite honest, as he allowed himself to sympathize with the young woman.
"And of course your idea is most brilliant. You have seen through to the best course of action. Bevan, as they say, knows everyone. And I don't quite recall the way to his office."
The Querist could likely have found it with minimal exploration - after all, it was one of the few places he had visited in the palace, but he wanted to reinforce Jill's feeling of usefulness and promote confidence in her ability to help.
"And while we walk, perhaps you would be so kind as to describe what you know of our Master Chef. Did he seem a happy man? I know cooks can sometimes get so caught up in the need to control things that they come off as a bit ... well, you know."
You've embarrassed her after all. Congratulations.
He listened closely and paid attention to her most minute physical cues in an attempt to rectify the situation. Fortunately she gave him plenty to work with.
"The Master Chef is definitely someone I shall have to meet."
His smile was quite honest, as he allowed himself to sympathize with the young woman.
"And of course your idea is most brilliant. You have seen through to the best course of action. Bevan, as they say, knows everyone. And I don't quite recall the way to his office."
The Querist could likely have found it with minimal exploration - after all, it was one of the few places he had visited in the palace, but he wanted to reinforce Jill's feeling of usefulness and promote confidence in her ability to help.
"And while we walk, perhaps you would be so kind as to describe what you know of our Master Chef. Did he seem a happy man? I know cooks can sometimes get so caught up in the need to control things that they come off as a bit ... well, you know."
“Thank you,†she replied demurely to Barrett’s compliment of her idea. Then Jill nodded her agreement with his comments about Bevan.
“Oh, no,†Jill replied, her expression softening as a rather dreamy look filled her eyes. “The Master Chef is very kind and has a charming way about him. He’s tall, with long, sandy brown hair and brilliant blue eyes,†she almost sighed, as the Achadhiel maiden led Barrett deeper into the warrens that were the general servants’ section of the Palace. “Oh, and he has a beard and mustache, and he always looks so dashing. He’s so very talented and his staff practically worship him!†Jill smiled, almost to herself, before blushing yet again and clearing her throat awkwardly.
From the aromas that wafted in their direction, it was evident that they were very near the Palace Kitchens. At the top of the corridor, another crossed it, going off both left and right. At the intersection, Jill paused.
“The Kitchens are just there,†she indicated a large door that featured prominently on the far wall, along the hallway to the left. “And Bevan’s office is just down here,†she said, turning to the right.
“Oh, no,†Jill replied, her expression softening as a rather dreamy look filled her eyes. “The Master Chef is very kind and has a charming way about him. He’s tall, with long, sandy brown hair and brilliant blue eyes,†she almost sighed, as the Achadhiel maiden led Barrett deeper into the warrens that were the general servants’ section of the Palace. “Oh, and he has a beard and mustache, and he always looks so dashing. He’s so very talented and his staff practically worship him!†Jill smiled, almost to herself, before blushing yet again and clearing her throat awkwardly.
From the aromas that wafted in their direction, it was evident that they were very near the Palace Kitchens. At the top of the corridor, another crossed it, going off both left and right. At the intersection, Jill paused.
“The Kitchens are just there,†she indicated a large door that featured prominently on the far wall, along the hallway to the left. “And Bevan’s office is just down here,†she said, turning to the right.
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"In that case, I quite look forward to meeting our Master Chef."
Barrett smiled at the rather extreme reaction Jill was having to her thoughts of the Chef.
Despite the scholar's near-certainty that he would recall the path, it took the overlap of kitchen's odor and memory scent to make him realize just where they were. He frowned and resolved to spend some time mapping out the place later.
"Jill, thank you again for being my guide. Perhaps we can talk the Master Chef out of a treat or two for your troubles."
Barrett spent a flicker recalling just which plain unmarked door had led to Bevan's office and then gave it a gentle rap.
(OOC: In the interest of moving forward, I'd be content to make do with a summary post to let this play out "in the background".
)
Barrett smiled at the rather extreme reaction Jill was having to her thoughts of the Chef.
Despite the scholar's near-certainty that he would recall the path, it took the overlap of kitchen's odor and memory scent to make him realize just where they were. He frowned and resolved to spend some time mapping out the place later.
"Jill, thank you again for being my guide. Perhaps we can talk the Master Chef out of a treat or two for your troubles."
Barrett spent a flicker recalling just which plain unmarked door had led to Bevan's office and then gave it a gentle rap.
(OOC: In the interest of moving forward, I'd be content to make do with a summary post to let this play out "in the background".
)Jill smiled and curtseyed quickly, a pixie smile upon her face, before she turned her eyes upon Bevan's door. When it opened, Barrett found before him an older man with thin, whispey, wild gray hair and dull, colorless eyes, eyes that almost matched the colorless quality of his sparse locks. The man was wrinkled and stooped, making his somewhat modest height difficult to judge, but his wry grin and mischievous look instantly gave him character that his bland coloring did not.
"Wot wot? What've we here? Jill, you little lady bug, I'll fetch my boot on you, I will!" challenged Bevan, pointing one gnarled finger at Barrett's escort. Jill tinkled a perfectly innocent laughter before she took up Barrett's arm and dipped a quick curtsey. "I've brought Barrett to you, Master Bevan! Will you meet him him?"
Bevan turned his eyes upon Barrett and smiled. "Well well!" he began, though he wasn't finished daring Jill yet. "You shouldn't be seeing any men, my dear! You're far too young for that yet," offered the aged man, giving her an admonishing look and a waggle of his finger amid Jill's blushing laughter once more. "Now why don't you leave us in peace so I might set this young rake straight, eh? Come in, come in, Barrett! Whatever catastrophe you have, I'm sure I can help..."
"Wot wot? What've we here? Jill, you little lady bug, I'll fetch my boot on you, I will!" challenged Bevan, pointing one gnarled finger at Barrett's escort. Jill tinkled a perfectly innocent laughter before she took up Barrett's arm and dipped a quick curtsey. "I've brought Barrett to you, Master Bevan! Will you meet him him?"
Bevan turned his eyes upon Barrett and smiled. "Well well!" he began, though he wasn't finished daring Jill yet. "You shouldn't be seeing any men, my dear! You're far too young for that yet," offered the aged man, giving her an admonishing look and a waggle of his finger amid Jill's blushing laughter once more. "Now why don't you leave us in peace so I might set this young rake straight, eh? Come in, come in, Barrett! Whatever catastrophe you have, I'm sure I can help..."
Barrett’s skin turned a bright shade of red at old Bevan’s taunting.
“Sir, I do hope you haven’t misinterpreted my, er, intentions in asking Jill to bring me here.â€
There was a hint of good-natured laughter in his voice, but his embarrassment was quite genuine.
First the Countess, then Sekhmet, now Jill. I shall have quite the reputation in Citadel soon. What will Ma say?
“Good tide, Master Bevan. I shall try not to take up too much of your morning.â€
The scholar took a moment to determine how to approach his questions. It seemed likely that Bevan was in a position to know about the Caesar’s condition. But there was no need to speak it aloud. That he was working on something for the ruler’s healer should be clue enough.
“I have been given a rather delicate assignment by Mistress Tabeann, at the request of Lady Rioja. It requires that I familiarize myself with the daily routines, comings and goings of both staff and visitors to the palace. Naturally, I thought you should be the one to ask about what servants and staff have access and regularly travel to different areas and chambers. I also wanted to seek your permission to acquaint myself with operations and interview some staff directly, as my research warrants. If you have a written breakdown of employees, that would also be most useful. Otherwise a list of supervisors with whom I might confer would be greatly appreciated. Since you know everyone, I would also be grateful for any suggestions you have as to how to approach people and who I would do best to avoid entirely.â€
“Since there is a great deal of discretion required in all of this, I hope to be as unobtrusive as possible and will do my best to ensure that I cause no interruptions to the routine.â€
“Sir, I do hope you haven’t misinterpreted my, er, intentions in asking Jill to bring me here.â€
There was a hint of good-natured laughter in his voice, but his embarrassment was quite genuine.
First the Countess, then Sekhmet, now Jill. I shall have quite the reputation in Citadel soon. What will Ma say?
“Good tide, Master Bevan. I shall try not to take up too much of your morning.â€
The scholar took a moment to determine how to approach his questions. It seemed likely that Bevan was in a position to know about the Caesar’s condition. But there was no need to speak it aloud. That he was working on something for the ruler’s healer should be clue enough.
“I have been given a rather delicate assignment by Mistress Tabeann, at the request of Lady Rioja. It requires that I familiarize myself with the daily routines, comings and goings of both staff and visitors to the palace. Naturally, I thought you should be the one to ask about what servants and staff have access and regularly travel to different areas and chambers. I also wanted to seek your permission to acquaint myself with operations and interview some staff directly, as my research warrants. If you have a written breakdown of employees, that would also be most useful. Otherwise a list of supervisors with whom I might confer would be greatly appreciated. Since you know everyone, I would also be grateful for any suggestions you have as to how to approach people and who I would do best to avoid entirely.â€
“Since there is a great deal of discretion required in all of this, I hope to be as unobtrusive as possible and will do my best to ensure that I cause no interruptions to the routine.â€
(OOC: I'd like to see where you go with this, frankly: we'll play out a bit of it before we assume anything!)
As Barrett spoke, Master Bevan nodded and pushed his door closed firmly. He was halfway back to his shabby desk...little more than a rickety table currently covered in a beautifully crafted, tiny replica of a sea-going ship...before he paused, hearing the rest of his guest's interests. He returned to the door and latched it, insuring no unexpected visitors during a conversation that seemed to show every indication of growing sensitive.
"Well, Master Barrett, I know of your associations and your benefactors, but before I divulge truly dangerous information, I'll need to verify your interests, of course. But let us move beyond that. First, I'll tell you about the staff structure within the Citadel itself, and then we'll move to the specifics of your inquiry," he offered, moving back to his desk where he pushed the nearly completed model aside to focus on their conversation more carefully.
"Technically, I would report to the Seneschal of the Chamber, though in practice, I seldom do. In fact, we haven't had a Seneschal of the Chamber since the Major Domos ran the last one off a yahren ago along with the Clerk. That means that our staffing issues are traditionally taken directly to the Lord of the Chamber...the Major Domos...though Lord de Winter doesn't like to be burdened with trivial matters. I've learned to...advise 'his holiness' with weekly reports, and he insists to inspect all incoming staff personally. Such inspections are legendary, Master Barrett: I line them up and present the Lord de Winter, he walks before them and inspects them carefully, and he occasionally dismisses a few on sight alone. Then he departs. The process takes perhaps half a burn at most, and it leaves the staff with a very real fear of the man."
Bevan made a face that clearly indicated to Barrett that he did not share their fear. In truth, it was clear that Master Bevan wasn't entirely pleased or impressed by his Lord de Winter, the Lord of the Chamber. "So that leaves it entirely in my hands, so I suggest you start your questioning with me. Sadly, anyone in the palace could gain access to the Caesar, depending on his condition or activities, but in practice this is rare. The Purple Guard tend to get testy when unknown faces come near the man, and I consider that rather healthy, really."
As Barrett spoke, Master Bevan nodded and pushed his door closed firmly. He was halfway back to his shabby desk...little more than a rickety table currently covered in a beautifully crafted, tiny replica of a sea-going ship...before he paused, hearing the rest of his guest's interests. He returned to the door and latched it, insuring no unexpected visitors during a conversation that seemed to show every indication of growing sensitive.
"Well, Master Barrett, I know of your associations and your benefactors, but before I divulge truly dangerous information, I'll need to verify your interests, of course. But let us move beyond that. First, I'll tell you about the staff structure within the Citadel itself, and then we'll move to the specifics of your inquiry," he offered, moving back to his desk where he pushed the nearly completed model aside to focus on their conversation more carefully.
"Technically, I would report to the Seneschal of the Chamber, though in practice, I seldom do. In fact, we haven't had a Seneschal of the Chamber since the Major Domos ran the last one off a yahren ago along with the Clerk. That means that our staffing issues are traditionally taken directly to the Lord of the Chamber...the Major Domos...though Lord de Winter doesn't like to be burdened with trivial matters. I've learned to...advise 'his holiness' with weekly reports, and he insists to inspect all incoming staff personally. Such inspections are legendary, Master Barrett: I line them up and present the Lord de Winter, he walks before them and inspects them carefully, and he occasionally dismisses a few on sight alone. Then he departs. The process takes perhaps half a burn at most, and it leaves the staff with a very real fear of the man."
Bevan made a face that clearly indicated to Barrett that he did not share their fear. In truth, it was clear that Master Bevan wasn't entirely pleased or impressed by his Lord de Winter, the Lord of the Chamber. "So that leaves it entirely in my hands, so I suggest you start your questioning with me. Sadly, anyone in the palace could gain access to the Caesar, depending on his condition or activities, but in practice this is rare. The Purple Guard tend to get testy when unknown faces come near the man, and I consider that rather healthy, really."
"I assure you my interest is in serving our ruler as well as the citizens of Citadel. If there are dreadful things afoot, I wish to use my talents to root them out and minimize the damage."
"Then we should start with those staff who are familiar faces. I need to know what is normal in order to identify that which might be out of place. Are servants assigned to specific areas, by hall or floor or whatnot, within the Citadel or do they rotate about as schedule demands? Perhaps chamber servants and dining staff in the royal wing would be a good place to start. Some of them might be questioned as to whether they have noted unusual comings or goings. Are there different uniforms that I might expect to see in different passages? Indeed, travel in the service passages seems to be a likely way for intruders to avoid scrutiny so I would like permission to monitor select routes so as to determine normal traffic flow."
Barrett thought it likely that the poison had been brought in by normal means by loyal, unknowing servants. That is how he would plan such a thing, and every indication was that the person(s) behind the plot was at least as detail-oriented as Barrett. Such knowledge would also aid the Querist in passing undetected - for he hoped to be able to do so with as little magickal assistance as possible.
"As for the Lord of the Chamber... is there a regular schedule for such things? I do not wish there to be any question about my employment and loyalties. But my own duties have required a most erratic and busy schedule thus far."
"Then we should start with those staff who are familiar faces. I need to know what is normal in order to identify that which might be out of place. Are servants assigned to specific areas, by hall or floor or whatnot, within the Citadel or do they rotate about as schedule demands? Perhaps chamber servants and dining staff in the royal wing would be a good place to start. Some of them might be questioned as to whether they have noted unusual comings or goings. Are there different uniforms that I might expect to see in different passages? Indeed, travel in the service passages seems to be a likely way for intruders to avoid scrutiny so I would like permission to monitor select routes so as to determine normal traffic flow."
Barrett thought it likely that the poison had been brought in by normal means by loyal, unknowing servants. That is how he would plan such a thing, and every indication was that the person(s) behind the plot was at least as detail-oriented as Barrett. Such knowledge would also aid the Querist in passing undetected - for he hoped to be able to do so with as little magickal assistance as possible.
"As for the Lord of the Chamber... is there a regular schedule for such things? I do not wish there to be any question about my employment and loyalties. But my own duties have required a most erratic and busy schedule thus far."
"Alright, that sounds appropriate," responded Bevan as he leaned forward to consider his guest. "Let's begin with the staff structure, shall we? The servants are traditionally assigned to specific floors, each one holding what chambers and rooms are appropriate. For example, the highest floors contain the Caesar's offices and rooms, while the areas closest to the gates and the walls area usually assigned to military cells."
"Each servant is usually assigned to a floor, though I've routinely pulled them from one and put them on another to cover for any illnesses, understaffing, or special need. I didn't have any such need all this week, save for the Caesar growing ill...I assigned additional servants to his floor to assist in whatever way they could to keep him comfortable, and I pulled servants from the ballroom and dining staff as the Caesar was in no position to host guests for a time."
"There were two new additions to staff recently, though they haven't been assigned to the top floor. However, they could have visited the Caesar if they were fortunate or lucky. Both individuals were screened by Lord de Winter, though. Mind you, that only includes the servants. There haven't been an exceptional number of new servants around for a while, but there have been new faces. Just rest assured that the new faces did not include the staff..."
"Each servant is usually assigned to a floor, though I've routinely pulled them from one and put them on another to cover for any illnesses, understaffing, or special need. I didn't have any such need all this week, save for the Caesar growing ill...I assigned additional servants to his floor to assist in whatever way they could to keep him comfortable, and I pulled servants from the ballroom and dining staff as the Caesar was in no position to host guests for a time."
"There were two new additions to staff recently, though they haven't been assigned to the top floor. However, they could have visited the Caesar if they were fortunate or lucky. Both individuals were screened by Lord de Winter, though. Mind you, that only includes the servants. There haven't been an exceptional number of new servants around for a while, but there have been new faces. Just rest assured that the new faces did not include the staff..."
"I'll want to speak to the two recent additions personally. Were you present at their screening with Lord de Winter? Was there anything out of the ordinary in his or their reactions?"
Could Lord de Winter be part of the plot? He could approve any new staff he wanted and sonds as though he could get them stationed wherever would be convenient...
"How about recently dismissed or absent staff - or anyone who requested a change in schedule or location? I am also interested in changes that may have occured prior to the Caesar's illness. Has Lady Aesa brought any outside staff to serve her at Citadel?"
"Are there records of non-staff visitors? Or should I ask to speak with the guards about that? Is there a way to get a list of visiting dignitaries and guests as well as their attendants? Perhaps a list or map of who has been invited to stay in the suites nearest the royal chambers..."
Barrett made a mental note to check with both the guard captain and Lady Rioja about any new faces in either the guard or healing staff. It looked more and more as if the guard should be consulted... unless one of their number was responsible. The tournament weapons might hold some clue - something that would not have been detected as poison if Barrett's theory of two elements in concert was correct.
"How about kitchen staff? Do they bring the food directly to the royal apartments?"
The Querist tried to keep his questions reasonably paced, but his mind was moving too quickly to stop them. At least he managed to keep a respectful tone. After all, Bevan was doing him a favor and to make demands would likely bring little information.
Could Lord de Winter be part of the plot? He could approve any new staff he wanted and sonds as though he could get them stationed wherever would be convenient...
"How about recently dismissed or absent staff - or anyone who requested a change in schedule or location? I am also interested in changes that may have occured prior to the Caesar's illness. Has Lady Aesa brought any outside staff to serve her at Citadel?"
"Are there records of non-staff visitors? Or should I ask to speak with the guards about that? Is there a way to get a list of visiting dignitaries and guests as well as their attendants? Perhaps a list or map of who has been invited to stay in the suites nearest the royal chambers..."
Barrett made a mental note to check with both the guard captain and Lady Rioja about any new faces in either the guard or healing staff. It looked more and more as if the guard should be consulted... unless one of their number was responsible. The tournament weapons might hold some clue - something that would not have been detected as poison if Barrett's theory of two elements in concert was correct.
"How about kitchen staff? Do they bring the food directly to the royal apartments?"
The Querist tried to keep his questions reasonably paced, but his mind was moving too quickly to stop them. At least he managed to keep a respectful tone. After all, Bevan was doing him a favor and to make demands would likely bring little information.
"Certainly, I can arrange for you to see any of the staff. The staff can be assigned wherever they might be needed, by myself or the Major Domos, as this quite literally is his house," responded Bevan, his fingers tapping upon his desk in thought. "If you're looking for specifics as to which staff might have taken the Caesar his food...or which might have been able to get close enough to him...that would be all of them, I'm afraid, though thankfully we don't often see problems with the staff due to the Major Domos. And no, as I've mentioned, I've had no need for staffing changes in the last week or so...no illnesses, deaths, or departures...and we don't allow unknown faces to enter and serve."
"Still, if you're interested in any...non-staff visitors, dignitaries, or personages, you need look no further than the Office of Protocol. I've no idea what they're doing over there, but I do know they're responsible for a few unknown faces around here, and without exception, they all have access to the Caesar," continued the old man, waving his hand in the general direction of that office. "I don't know what methods they use to screen incoming personnel, but I know that I receive no briefings from that office for new attendants, so it's likely no one else does, either. I'm required to balance my staff to the Major Domos himself weekly. I wonder if the Master of Protocol does the same?"
"Master Barrett, perhaps I should take you to the Major Domos? I admit, I'm only going to report our conversation to him, anyway. Have you met Lord Marius de Winter? It might save you considerable trouble if you...experience the man first hand, and he isn't far away. Let us run up to his office and speak to him while he should be in the way?" offered the head servant, rising and gesturing towards the door.
"Still, if you're interested in any...non-staff visitors, dignitaries, or personages, you need look no further than the Office of Protocol. I've no idea what they're doing over there, but I do know they're responsible for a few unknown faces around here, and without exception, they all have access to the Caesar," continued the old man, waving his hand in the general direction of that office. "I don't know what methods they use to screen incoming personnel, but I know that I receive no briefings from that office for new attendants, so it's likely no one else does, either. I'm required to balance my staff to the Major Domos himself weekly. I wonder if the Master of Protocol does the same?"
"Master Barrett, perhaps I should take you to the Major Domos? I admit, I'm only going to report our conversation to him, anyway. Have you met Lord Marius de Winter? It might save you considerable trouble if you...experience the man first hand, and he isn't far away. Let us run up to his office and speak to him while he should be in the way?" offered the head servant, rising and gesturing towards the door.
Office of Protocol? But why would their staff need direct access to Anochrim? Perhaps some more in-depth research into that office is in order.
"Yes, Master Bevan, if you could arrange for me to speak with some of the kitchen staff - those in charge of the Caesar's meals and those who create the menu - as well as the floor staff for the royal apartments. Perhaps over the next day or two?"
The Major Domos was another problem. It seemed like he had rather arbitrary control over who was and was not kept on staff. He had all the access needed to carry out the plotting that Barrett suspected. But the Querist would have preferred time to prepare for such a meeting with appropriate research... Still, to delay might make Bevan suspicious and that was something that Barrett could not afford to do at this juncture.
"If you are certain it is no inconvenience to yourself or Lord de Winter."
Barrett thought quickly. His investigation was supposed to be secret. Yet he needed certain information that required the cooperation of these folk. And they already knew the Caesar was ill. Surely those in positions of power must suspect poisoning or bad food as a possibility. He needed to give as little away as possible. He reached inward for strength and guidance.
Thinker, help me to conceal that which I must and still not arouse the suspicion of this Lord de Winter. I am newly come to your gifts and yet thrust into situations that require great skill to navigate. To uncover knowledge I must conceal my search and perhaps my nature until the time is right.
"Yes, Master Bevan, if you could arrange for me to speak with some of the kitchen staff - those in charge of the Caesar's meals and those who create the menu - as well as the floor staff for the royal apartments. Perhaps over the next day or two?"
The Major Domos was another problem. It seemed like he had rather arbitrary control over who was and was not kept on staff. He had all the access needed to carry out the plotting that Barrett suspected. But the Querist would have preferred time to prepare for such a meeting with appropriate research... Still, to delay might make Bevan suspicious and that was something that Barrett could not afford to do at this juncture.
"If you are certain it is no inconvenience to yourself or Lord de Winter."
Barrett thought quickly. His investigation was supposed to be secret. Yet he needed certain information that required the cooperation of these folk. And they already knew the Caesar was ill. Surely those in positions of power must suspect poisoning or bad food as a possibility. He needed to give as little away as possible. He reached inward for strength and guidance.
Thinker, help me to conceal that which I must and still not arouse the suspicion of this Lord de Winter. I am newly come to your gifts and yet thrust into situations that require great skill to navigate. To uncover knowledge I must conceal my search and perhaps my nature until the time is right.
"Oh, my good sir, I'm always an inconvenience to the Major Domos," responded the older man with a laugh. "Still, if you're interested in speaking to him, I can arrange it either now or later. In fact, it might be best if I penned a letter requesting you an...appointment, as it were. Lord de Winter is very appreciative of traditional etiquette, so such a gesture would also put you in a very good standing with him initially. And make no mistake...the man always judges people quickly, instantly, and permanently," he added, raising his shoulders in a shrug. "I've seen him do it."
Rising, he pointed towards the door. "As for the kitchen staff, why, we can go see them right now. I'll accompany you, if you wish, to insure they give you no difficulty. I'll arrange for the staff to speak with you over the course of the next couple days as well, but the kitchen staff...they're just nearby, and they should be in full attendance. They're making soup, you understand..." the Caesar's recent diet consisted of a great deal of uneaten soup "...which isn't something with which they're completely accustomed, so they've struggled with it in a way I find most...humorous, really."
The head servant unlocked and opened his door and motioned Barrett towards the hallway. "That is, if you'd like to proceed this instant with that staff? Have you met the head chef of the Palace, sir?"
Rising, he pointed towards the door. "As for the kitchen staff, why, we can go see them right now. I'll accompany you, if you wish, to insure they give you no difficulty. I'll arrange for the staff to speak with you over the course of the next couple days as well, but the kitchen staff...they're just nearby, and they should be in full attendance. They're making soup, you understand..." the Caesar's recent diet consisted of a great deal of uneaten soup "...which isn't something with which they're completely accustomed, so they've struggled with it in a way I find most...humorous, really."
The head servant unlocked and opened his door and motioned Barrett towards the hallway. "That is, if you'd like to proceed this instant with that staff? Have you met the head chef of the Palace, sir?"
"Ah, yes. I would prefer not to skip any of the proper steps in making the Lord de Winter's acquaintance. Plus, that will give me time to brush up on the etiquette of such interviews."
Barrett smiled conspiratorially to mask his relief.
"Perhaps some soup would be nice. I've not met the Master chef, but I have been assured that he is a most charming fellow."
The young man chuckled at the memory of Jill's wistful look as she'd spoken of the chef.
Barrett smiled conspiratorially to mask his relief.
"Perhaps some soup would be nice. I've not met the Master chef, but I have been assured that he is a most charming fellow."
The young man chuckled at the memory of Jill's wistful look as she'd spoken of the chef.
...and charming he was. Barrett met the head chef, a man that took perhaps as much pride in his own presentation as he did in his cooking. Perhaps. He was tall, picturesque, and perfectly immaculate in his appearance, even to the point of keeping spare aprons on hand to avoid any unsightly stains or blemishes upon his person as he prepared his meals.
As Bevan introduced Barrett around, the staff was busy preparing the pecks needed for tonight's bake that would become tomorrow's bread, the immemorable tradition of baking the world over. He came to know the kitchen staff one by one, and there were many...at least a dozen working even then...with the bulk of the staff rolling, cutting, and placing bread pecks while the remainder stirred and tested six different types of soups that demonstrated varying degrees of success.
After initial introductions and some explanations, Barrett had a clear idea how the kitchen worked. Beyond formal functions or planned meals, the Caesar's own meals were prepared here, requested by whatever servant was sent and delivered by the same. The process was used by all servants sent to collect meals, and while it was certainly not a secure system, the young man could find no indication that any among the kitchen staff would even know from where meal requests came: they would never know if they prepared a meal for a visiting dignitary, a hungry guard, or the Caesar himself.
Bevan took Barrett aside once the interviews were over. "I'll send servants to you over the next few days so you can speak to them individually. Maybe you'll learn something? I don't envy you the task...there are plenty...but I'll only send them during the Tradetide, and I'll try to get 'em started quick. I'll send your interest to the Lord Chamber as well, and he'll contact you as soon as he can speak with you. Will that help, sir?" he asked, clearly pleased to be in the aromatic kitchens and in no hurry to leave them.
As Bevan introduced Barrett around, the staff was busy preparing the pecks needed for tonight's bake that would become tomorrow's bread, the immemorable tradition of baking the world over. He came to know the kitchen staff one by one, and there were many...at least a dozen working even then...with the bulk of the staff rolling, cutting, and placing bread pecks while the remainder stirred and tested six different types of soups that demonstrated varying degrees of success.
After initial introductions and some explanations, Barrett had a clear idea how the kitchen worked. Beyond formal functions or planned meals, the Caesar's own meals were prepared here, requested by whatever servant was sent and delivered by the same. The process was used by all servants sent to collect meals, and while it was certainly not a secure system, the young man could find no indication that any among the kitchen staff would even know from where meal requests came: they would never know if they prepared a meal for a visiting dignitary, a hungry guard, or the Caesar himself.
Bevan took Barrett aside once the interviews were over. "I'll send servants to you over the next few days so you can speak to them individually. Maybe you'll learn something? I don't envy you the task...there are plenty...but I'll only send them during the Tradetide, and I'll try to get 'em started quick. I'll send your interest to the Lord Chamber as well, and he'll contact you as soon as he can speak with you. Will that help, sir?" he asked, clearly pleased to be in the aromatic kitchens and in no hurry to leave them.
Barrett had hoped the kitchens might remind him of home, but this was a far grander operation than his Ma's kitchen at the Dragon.
Still, the persons serving in this area seemed a friendlier, more talkative bunch than the serious librarians and archivists that Barrett had been surrounded by for the past two days. He found himself losing the officious manner he had assumed in his investigation and enjoying the kitchen company.
When his thoughts did at last return to the matter of information... his brow creased and a slight frown crossed over his features for a flicker.
Far too easy it seems, for someone to intercept meals going in either direction.
He made a special effort to obtain the menu details from the Betrothal Dinner- as that would be the "official" reason for his investigating and interviewing certain facts and people.
When Bevan addressed the subject of interviews, the Querist nodded gravely.
"Yes, yes, Master Bevan. That will be just fine. Do you think you can also arrange for a small meeting room not too far from their duties? The library is a bit too quiet to carry out such things."
Barrett had a sudden longing to return to the simple life of a barman. No assassins, demons, investigations, protocols... Perhaps a trip outside the Citadel walls was called for - that tavern he had spotted on the way in...
Still, the persons serving in this area seemed a friendlier, more talkative bunch than the serious librarians and archivists that Barrett had been surrounded by for the past two days. He found himself losing the officious manner he had assumed in his investigation and enjoying the kitchen company.
When his thoughts did at last return to the matter of information... his brow creased and a slight frown crossed over his features for a flicker.
Far too easy it seems, for someone to intercept meals going in either direction.
He made a special effort to obtain the menu details from the Betrothal Dinner- as that would be the "official" reason for his investigating and interviewing certain facts and people.
When Bevan addressed the subject of interviews, the Querist nodded gravely.
"Yes, yes, Master Bevan. That will be just fine. Do you think you can also arrange for a small meeting room not too far from their duties? The library is a bit too quiet to carry out such things."
Barrett had a sudden longing to return to the simple life of a barman. No assassins, demons, investigations, protocols... Perhaps a trip outside the Citadel walls was called for - that tavern he had spotted on the way in...
"You may use my office, Barrett...should be honored for you to do so. All servants pass by here at some point, so no one would even notice your questionings if you did..." offered Bevan, his own office perhaps the perfect place for such interviews given that it truly would not disrupt the staff, it would give Barrett a position of power when he interviewed them, and it would not be noticed by those that might wonder about so many strange interviews.
The master servant ambled on about the people he would bring, though he paused long enough to collect a sweetmeat and a few blood-red fruits from a table while the head chef was distracted with another soup fiasco. "...I'll send you a note with a schedule of interviews, and you can relax there...and I'll burden the chef with my presence for the next couple days..." he continued, fleshing out the particulars of the interviews for Barrett.
(OOC: A summary departure for you, and that might end us here?)
The master servant ambled on about the people he would bring, though he paused long enough to collect a sweetmeat and a few blood-red fruits from a table while the head chef was distracted with another soup fiasco. "...I'll send you a note with a schedule of interviews, and you can relax there...and I'll burden the chef with my presence for the next couple days..." he continued, fleshing out the particulars of the interviews for Barrett.
(OOC: A summary departure for you, and that might end us here?)
Bevan's solution was perfect and restored the enthusiasm to the Dortman's feature's.
Here is one who certainly sees through to the heart of things!
"That is quite an ideal solution, Master Bevan. I daresay I will be much indebted to you before this is all over."
The Querist made note of the necessary arrangements and asked a few general questions - most notably about the availability and popularity of pomegranates - before making his departure.
(OOC: Done. Muchas gracias! )
Here is one who certainly sees through to the heart of things!
"That is quite an ideal solution, Master Bevan. I daresay I will be much indebted to you before this is all over."
The Querist made note of the necessary arrangements and asked a few general questions - most notably about the availability and popularity of pomegranates - before making his departure.
(OOC: Done.
Muchas gracias! )